DLL (Denbighshire Leisure Ltd) is promoting Mental Health Awareness Week through an ongoing partnership between their Community Arts Team and Carter’s (NW) CiC. 

Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from 11th May to 17th May and focuses on the importance of mental health and helping those in need of support.

As a Community Interest Company (CIC), Carter’s, based in Ruthin, operates with a social purpose at its core, reinvesting its efforts and resources into supporting local people to deliver tangible benefits remaining focused on social impact rather than profit.  Over the past few months DLL’s Community Arts team have been collaborating with Carter’s to provide creative interventions to reduce isolation and loneliness while promoting wellbeing across Denbighshire.

Together DLL and Carter’s have been delivering creative workshops with the support of BCUHB’s Creative Well funded by NHS Charities Together. ‘More Than A Cuppa’ is a referral only group, open to adult patients of Secondary Care Mental Health Services.

Carter’s CIC provides a safe, inclusive environment where individuals can connect, build relationships, and develop a sense of belonging. Through its activities and support, the organisation aims to improve mental wellbeing and create opportunities for meaningful social engagement—particularly for those who may feel isolated or disconnected.

Carter’s Holly Williams, a Therapeutic Counsellor, said  “By fostering inclusive spaces and encouraging community participation, Carter’s CIC is helping to build stronger, more resilient local networks and offering vital support to individuals who need it most.”  A participant said, “I didn’t leave the house before. Joining a social group was a big deal for me and it has taken time for me to even get into the building – but I can do it now. The group provides structure to my week, I know on a Friday I go to Carter’s.”

Jamie Groves, DLL MD said “Raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing, along with helping those in need of support is something that our Community Arts Team truly excel at.  By highlighting our partnership with Carter’s and supporting Mental Health Awareness Week, we are taking positive action towards building a better understanding of how people can access the help they need.”

Currently, professional artist Jude Wood is delivering workshops in Ruthin with Carter’s, supported by Arts Council of Wales. The Creative Wellbeing Sessions for Women open conversations around topics that matter to women, including, perimenopause and menopause, relationships, identity and life changes, anxiety and neurodiversity.